Exploring the UK's Best Gravel Bike Routes
Unleash your adventurous spirit with Ribble! Explore the best gravel bike routes across the UK, featuring breathtaking views and thrilling trails for cyclists of all levels.
Gravel biking has taken the UK by storm with its captivating mix of adventure, scenic trails, and a hint of endurance testing. For those seeking the thrill of varied terrain, the UK offers some of the best gravel biking routes that showcase its diverse landscapes, historic landmarks, and natural beauty. We are here to recommend some of the top routes across England, Scotland, and beyond.
What Makes a Good Gravel Biking Route?
Varied Terrain: A good gravel biking route offers a real mix of terrain, including smooth, well-maintained gravel paths and more rugged, challenging sections. This variety allows riders to test their skills and endurance while offering moments of ease for recovery.
Scenic Landscapes: The best gravel routes weave through breathtaking natural environments, whether rolling hills, dense forests, or coastal tracks. A visually stunning route improves the riding experience and makes for a more rewarding journey.
Clear Accessibility and Signage: Clear, well-marked routes with signage are essential. Cyclists should be able to follow the trail easily without getting lost, allowing riders to focus on the terrain rather than navigation.
Connection to History or Nature: Routes that include historical landmarks, ancient sites, or wildlife make the journey more immersive. Cycling through places of cultural or natural significance can add depth to the experience, turning a simple ride into an epic adventure.
Balance of Challenge and Enjoyment: A great gravel route balances challenging terrain and enjoyable, rideable sections. This balance keeps cyclists engaged without feeling overwhelmed, offering moments of triumph and relaxation.
Please Note: Ribble Cycles cannot be held liable for any road closures, cycling trail disruptions, or other unforeseen events that may render these shared cycling routes impassable. Cyclists are advised to check local conditions and plan their routes accordingly before embarking on their journey.
The Peebles Loop, Scottish Borders
The Peebles Loop, a 80-kilometre route through the Scottish Borders has a historical setting and a challenging terrain. Starting from the market town of Peebles, this trail features a combination of gravel paths, woodland tracks, and rugged trails that wind through the rolling hills and forests of the Tweed Valley. Perfect for those seeking a relatively short but adventurous ride, the Peebles Loop provides stunning views of the Southern Uplands and an opportunity to experience the tranquil Scottish countryside in all its resplendent glory.
- Distance: 80 km
- Highest Point: 500 m (Glenkinnon Hill)
- Time to Complete: 1-2 days
The Lakeland Loop, Lake District
The Lake District’s Lakeland Loop offers an awe-inspiring 109-kilometre circuit known for its rugged charm and breathtaking views. With ascents that challenge and descents that thrill, this route winds through valleys, past tranquil lakes, and across open moorland. Gravel bikers will relish the blend of challenging climbs and stunning panoramas. This ride is not one for the faint of heart, including the calf-crushing climbs of Whinlatter, Wrynose and Hardknott.
- Distance: 109 km
- Highest Point: 545 m (Hardknott Pass)
- Time to Complete: 1-2 days
The Northumberland Sandstone Way
Spanning 193 kilometres, the Northumberland Sandstone Way connects Berwick-upon-Tweed to Hexham. This route showcases the wild beauty of Northumberland’s rolling hills and expansive landscapes. Along the way, bikers traverse sandstone ridges, pass ancient ruins, and encounter challenging terrain. The Sandstone Way is a must-ride for those seeking a mix of history, geology, and adventure.
- Distance: 193 km
- Highest Point: 350 m (Simonside Hills)
- Time to Complete: 3-4 days
The Rebellion Way, Norfolk
The Rebellion Way covers over 230 miles of Norfolk’s charming, undulating landscapes, winding through serene woods, coastal paths, and agricultural fields. This route offers varied terrain and a unique gravel experience that pairs natural beauty with historic sites, including old churches, forts, and medieval towns. For those looking for a less mountainous yet immersive gravel experience, the Rebellion Way delivers.
- Distance: 230 miles
- Highest Point: 95 m (Coltishall Hills)
- Time to Complete: 2-3 days
The Pennine Bridleway
The Pennine Bridleway spans the length of the Pennine Hills, which form the 'backbone of England' and head from south to north. At 296 kilometres, it's ideal for those ready to take on high passes, sweeping valleys, and the quintessential British countryside. Its diverse tracks include Roman roads, historic packhorse trails, gravel B-roads, and bridleways, highlighting the dramatic scenery of northern England. The ride offers a mix of well-maintained paths and rougher, challenging sections, perfect for the more adventurous gravel cyclist.
- **Distance:**296 km
- Highest Point: 700 m (Grisedale Pike)
- Time to Complete: 3-5 days
The Cairngorms Loop, Scotland
The Cairngorms Loop, a challenging 266-kilometre route through Scotland’s rugged Cairngorms National Park, is a true test of endurance and resilience. Remote and wild, this trail features mountain paths, forest tracks, and river crossings. Ideal for experienced gravel bikers, it delivers solitude, stunning vistas, and the chance to encounter Scottish wildlife in its natural habitat.
- Distance: 266 km
- Highest Point: 1,100 m (Cairn Toul Summit)
- Time to Complete: 3-4 days
South Downs Way, South of England
The South Downs Way, a famous 160-kilometre route between Winchester and Eastbourne, is known for its chalky paths, steep climbs, and ridge-top views. Rolling hills and ancient landscapes make it a fantastic option for gravel bikers who appreciate a scenic ride. This trail provides a mix of manageable terrain, grassy paths, and occasional rocky sections, all with panoramic views of the South Downs.
- Distance: 160 km
- Highest Point: 272 m (Beacon Hill)
- Time to Complete: 2-3 days
Galloway Forest Park, Scotland
For gravel bikers craving a scenic Scottish adventure, Galloway Forest Park offers a variety of looped trails surrounded by rugged hills, dark forests, and expansive lochs. Known as the “Gateway to the Southern Uplands,” this park has gravel tracks and forestry roads that cater to riders of all levels, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature’s tranquillity.
- Distance: Various loops, up to 50 km
- Highest Point: 700 m (Merrick Hill)
- Time to Complete: 1 day
Salisbury Plain
This 85 km route takes you up onto Salisbury Plain, travelling from west to eat in a circular direction. Route highlights include the iconic Westbury White Horse, ancient hill fort at Bratton, the old Marlborough road and the military encampment that inhabits the centre of the plain. A word of warning though: Salisbury Plain is an active military training area, which means you will bypass areas of live firing and exercising troops, so take great care to stick to the paths and obey all flags and signs. The best time to complete this ride is at the weekend when troop activity is at its lowest.
- Distance: 85 km
- Elevation Gain: 985m
- Time to Complete: 1 day
The Ridgeway, Chilterns
One of the oldest trails in the UK, the Ridegway takes in the scenic Chilterns and North Wessex Downs. Starting in Wiltshire, it passes through the Chiltern Hills, offering sweeping views of the Thames Valley and access to Iron Age forts, burial mounds, and hill forts. Gravel riders will enjoy the ancient paths and rural scenery, making this route an ideal day trip for two-wheeled gravel enthusiasts.
- Distance: 74.4 km
- Highest Point: 267 m (Chiltern Hills)
- Time to Complete: 1 day
Choosing the Right Gravel Bike for Your Gravel Adventure
Selecting the right bike for your gravel riding experience is crucial to getting the most out of these diverse trails. Gravel bikes are designed to handle a variety of terrains, from smooth gravel paths to rough, off-road tracks. Consider factors such as frame material, tyre clearance, and gearing when choosing your adventure bike. A comfortable fit is key, as longer rides across uneven surfaces require bikes that offer stability and endurance. Whether you’re looking for something lightweight and responsive or a more durable option for more challenging routes, choosing the right bike will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable ride.
Gravel Ti - Titanium Gravel Bike
With an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and rugged durability, the Gravel Ti is designed to tackle the toughest off-road adventures with ease.
Gravel AL e - Alloy Gravel e-Bike
Combining lightweight alloy construction with advanced e-bike technology, the Gravel AL e redefines power-assisted, all-terrain riding. With 250Wh of extra power to boost your ride when needed, this e-bike expands your adventure possibilities—helping you confidently conquer any terrain, from rugged mountains to gravel trails
Gravel SL - Carbon Gravel Bike
The Gravel SL’s advanced high-grade carbon layup provides a lightweight, stiff, and aerodynamic frame. It is optimised for power transfer and inspired by the Endurance SL family. Engineered for speed and agility, it offers a thrilling, high-performance ride that lets you charge down trails at top speed.
Finding the Perfect Gravel Bike with Ribble
Gravel biking in the UK offers endless opportunities to explore diverse landscapes, from the Yorkshire Dales rolling hills to the Cairngorms' rugged terrain. Choosing the right bike can make all the difference for those looking to make the most of these routes. Ribble Cycles offers a range of gravel bikes tailored to different terrains and riding styles, along with expert guidance on how to choose the right gravel bike for your adventures.
Additionally, our experts provide their top recommendations and tips on how to ensure long ride success. From bike setup advice to packing essentials for long-distance rides, these will help you stay prepared and comfortable on even the toughest trails. With our expert tips and the support of the Collective, you can confidently hit the trails and make every gravel biking journey a memorable one.
